Understanding WCAG SC 2.5.7 Dragging Movements
All functionality that uses a dragging movement for operation can be achieved by a single pointer without dragging, unless dragging is essential or the functionality is determined by the user agent and not modified by the author.
Note: This requirement applies to web content that interprets pointer actions (i.e. this does not apply to actions that are required to operate the user agent or assistive technology).
The intent of this success criterion is to ensure that functionalities such as drag and drop are made accessible to users with motor disabilities. Not all users can drag and drop an element using the mouse or perform long press, drag, and slide gestures on touch devices to rearrange elements in a web or mobile application.
In this scenario, the user must be provided with the ability to move the content block using a button or other alternative techniques. For instance, in a range slider, the user can be presented with a text field to input the desired range, serving as an alternative method.
One of the classic examples is the ability to rearrange content blocks in the WordPress editor. Here, a button enables the user to move the content block from one section to another and provides necessary feedback.
A video demonstrating the drag-and-drop alternative in the Gutenberg editor.
Points to Ponder
- Ensure Alternative Functionality: Wherever drag and drop functionality is employed, it’s crucial to provide an alternative method. This ensures that users with diverse abilities can interact with the interface effectively.
- Simplify Single Pointer or Touch Interaction: Ensure that interactions involving a single pointer or touch are intuitive and don’t burden users with excessive cognitive load. Simplify actions to enhance user experience and ease of use.
- Simplicity in Design: Keep the user experience simple. During the design process, evaluate whether such complex functionalities, like intricate drag and drop features, are truly necessary for the product. Strive for elegance in simplicity to enhance user understanding and engagement.
Hi Raghavendra,
It was a good demonstration. Could you also explain or comment here regarding how to handle the file selection. We have a component where we can drag and drop files, Also the same widget has a link to open the file selection window from the system. Does it meet the success criteria.